This is the Way: Phillip Long

A lifelong sports lover, Phillip Long always planned on entering the professional sports industry. His goal was to work in sports management upon graduating college. But, marketing classes soon took hold. His interest in the marketing field began to grow.

After an internship with FC Dallas, Phillip’s friend Heather Cherry introduced him to Laird Rixford of ITC. Phillip began working at ITC as an advanced search engine optimization consultant, speaking with customers about how to market their agencies online. Phillip then moved from a customer-facing role into a managerial role as ITC’s internet marketing product manager.

“For some reason, Laird wanted to take a shot on me in a brand new position,” said Phillip. “I like to think it’s paid off pretty well for him!”

Phillip likes the opportunity the industry presents, and enjoys developing marketing strategies to help independent agents grow and succeed.

“There are so many agents out there that, frankly, don’t know how to market their agency,” said Phillip. “I’ve always liked helping other people, and there’s nothing better than seeing an agency really take off with our help.”

This is the way Phillip Long works.

Location:

Lewisville, TX

Current gig:

Internet Marketing Product Manager at ITC

One word that describes how you like to work:

Interdisciplinary. I think work is best approached from a variety of angles.

I asked out (that’s what kids do, you know) my now wife back in 2004, and we’re going to be celebrating 7 years of marriage in June. She’s a rock star. I have two little girls that can brighten any day, even if they cry over running out of Lucky Charms.

What are your goals for the next 12 months?

Increasing the ROI for our agents on our digital marketing programs

What are your biggest professional challenges?

Patience. Sometimes things have to wait and I’d rather get stuff done.

What do you like most about your job?

As a product manager you have to approach things from different perspectives: technology, marketing, management, etc. I like the challenge.

Aside from your phone and computer, what gadget can’t you live without and why?

My Xbox. Most of my friends play games so it’s a good way to ‘hang out’ without getting out on weekdays.

What are the top three apps you use on your phone?

Twitter, GroupMe and the Google Now feed for news

Describe your workspace.

Lots of Ranger bobble heads.

How do you manage your to-do list?

It depends on the work. If it’s a daily list, I use a sticky note. If it’s long term project, I’ll use Tasks in Outlook.

What’s your best time-saving tip or hack?

I set aside time during the middle of the day when I won’t have meetings or appointments unless there isn’t another option. This helps me plan out when I can get small tasks done…and makes sure I eat lunch.

What is your best everyday habit?

Getting out of bed when my alarm goes off. Did you know that the sleep you get from snoozing 10 minutes isn’t that good? Don’t @ me.

What do you listen to while working?

Depends on what I’m doing. Alternative for normal work, EDM/mashups for really focusing, and Queen if I want to listen to the best band ever.

What’s your favorite blog and/or podcast?

I don’t listen to podcasts and most of the blogs are SEO/marketing related. So I’ll say SB Nation because there are some really talented writers out there.

Night owl or morning person?

Morning.

What are you watching on Netflix right now?

I try to stay current on shows so not much Netflix. Brooklyn 99, Game of Thrones, Silicon Valley, Parks and Rec (on Netflix). I watch a lot of TV…

How do you decompress?

Cooking with the family, watching TV with the wife or playing Xbox.

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

My kids, normally. Lucky if it’s my alarm.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Wake up around 6 and have my coffee (a shower, I’m anti coffee). Take the girls to childcare and head to work around 730. Crush work until 430ish and leave to either head home or pick up the girls. Then hang out until the bedtime routine starts at 730 and ends usually after 8. Then hopefully in bed by 10.

Who are your business idols and why?

Recently I would say it’s changed. I would say anyone who fights for what’s right, so currently Yvon Chouinard (Patagonia founder) and Rose Marcario (current CEO). Not only are they incredible at running the company, but aren’t afraid to stand up for what they believe in.

What is your motto or personal mantra?

You can control your effort, but you can’t control the outcome.

What would you be doing if you weren’t working at ITC?

Hopefully working somewhere else…or starting my own business. That’s always been a goal of mine.

Who would you like to see in a future This is the Way post?

Bob Flor of Peachstate Insurance

About the Author

Emily Nguyen supports the implementation of ITC’s marketing efforts, including producing product newsletters and other customer communications, managing multiple social media profiles, and writing and reviewing content. She has a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Texas Tech University. Emily enjoys social media, exploring Dallas-Fort Worth, and spending time with her husband and their dog.